Groups Appeal Forest Service Plan

Jackson, Wy – Five groups are appealing a decision by the Forest Service to increase helicopter use in some wilderness areas of the Bridger-Teton and Caribu-Targhee National Forests. The concern is over how the helicopters could impact some critical wildlife in the area. Wyoming Wilderness Association Director Liz Howell says they also object to the purpose of the increased numbers of helicopters which is helicopter skiing. She says it will have terrible impacts on the areas wildlife, including Wolverines.Howell says the Regional Forester did not properly explore alternatives before making the decision to allow more helicopters. That will be one of the key points the groups will bring up in their appeal.